MICHELLE O.

Hi, I’m Michelle 👋 We’re a family of five — me, my husband, and our three grown-up children — living in South Yorkshire, and dogs have always been such a huge part of our lives. Our home just wouldn’t feel right without them. Our first girl, Hollie, came into our lives as a rescue when she was just 10 months old. She was a beautiful Labrador with the gentlest soul, and she grew up right alongside our children. Hollie was part of our family for an incredible 16 years, and she filled our home with so much love, loyalty, and laughter. Losing her at Christmas was heartbreaking, but we feel so lucky to have had her for so long. She taught us everything about the unconditional love and companionship that dogs bring into your life. In 2020, along came Cooper. He joined us at 12 weeks old — a gorgeous red Cavapoo with the quirkiest little personality. Cooper is our cheeky boy, full of fun and charm. He’s a proper lap dog at heart, happiest when he’s snuggled up with one of us, but he’s also got that playful streak that makes him the life of the house. And belly rubs? Non-negotiable. If you sit down, Cooper will be right there, rolling onto his back, waiting for a fuss. Then, in 2021, we welcomed Willow into our family. She was only a tiny ball of fluff when she arrived, but her sweet, playful personality quickly made her the heart of our home. Willow is my little shadow — she’s ball-obsessed (if it rolls, she’ll chase it!), loves a cuddle more than anything, and has this wonderful way of looking at you as if she completely understands every word you say. As a family, we love spending time at our static caravan by the coast. Whether it’s a weekend break or a longer holiday, the dogs absolutely love it. They’ve grown so used to travelling in the car that they practically jump in as soon as the keys rattle. Nothing makes them happier than running along the beach and then curling up for a cosy evening in the caravan. At home, we’re lucky to have a huge garden, which they treat like their own private playground — zoomies are a daily event here, and watching them chase each other around brings us endless smiles. I work from home, which means I get to spend my days with Cooper and Willow by my side, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. They’re my constant companions, always keeping me company while I work, and I like to think I keep them company too. They’re not “just dogs” to us — they’re family. They’re loved and cared for just as much as our children, and every day with them is a reminder of the joy and loyalty that dogs bring into your life. Over the years, we’ve learned that dogs thrive when they’re truly part of the family. That’s the environment Cooper and Willow live in, and it’s exactly how we’ll raise their pups too — surrounded by love, attention, and plenty of fun from the very beginning. From Hollie, we learned patience and the beauty of a rescue; from Cooper, we’ve learned to embrace the quirky and silly moments; and from Willow, we’ve learned that there’s no such thing as too many cuddles. Our dogs bring us so much happiness, and as we prepare for Willow and Cooper’s first litter together, we can’t wait to share that same happiness with other families who will love their puppies just as much as we do.